Light heavyweight prospect Pawel Augustynik claimed English, British and International honours as an amateur, and has cruised to 5-0 in the professional ranks without conceding a round – not bad given he only took up boxing to stay out of mischief.
Augustynik’s rise from troubled teen to amateur champion is a familiar one; dragged to a local boxing gym by concerned parents he discovered discipline, focus, and a dormant talent for the sweet science.
Within three years of lacing up for the first time he claimed a GB title, which turned the head of Bristol boxing icon, Chris Sanigar.
Sanigar‘s eye for a fighter is astute and his gym in the West Country is a conveyor belt of top talent. World Champion’s Glen Catley, Lee Selby and Lee Haskins were all fine-tuned at Bristol Boxing Gym; a gym Augustynik now calls home.
Confident that the 22 year-old could make the transition to the pro-ranks, Sanigar signed the Somerset-based Pole to a management contract in late 2016.
“I watched him all the way through the amateurs and he’s got great skill. Becoming a champion does not happen overnight; we will keep our feet on the ground, but as far as I’m concerned he will at least go on to box for the British title,” said Sanigar.
Sanigar added: “The boy is 5-0 and already drawing big crowds wherever he fights. We may even do a show in his hometown [Taunton]. He’s a great fighter and a great guy, he has a very good future ahead and I am expecting big things from Pawel.”
Sterner examinations lay ahead for the popular Pole who will need to reach his full potential if he is to lay claim to The Lord Lonsdale strap in a light heavyweight division brimming with top domestic talent. But early signs are positive. His fan-friendly all-action style married with Sanigar’s guidance make his journey one to keep an eye on.
Augustynik steps back into the ring on March 16 at Bristol City’s Ashton Gate Stadium.